Quick Guide: spring/summer, hardy, full sun, height:23cm/9in, width: 15cm/6in

Lewisias are semi-succulent perennials. Those described here are reliably hardy, but there are other fine species which need the protection of an alpine house. Native to North America, the pink flowers rise on erect stems from rosette-forming fleshy mid-green leaves. Lewisia cotyledon is a variable species which has given rise to many named forms of varying colours, bearing masses of daisy-like flowers in late spring.

GROWING Plant in spring, placing the rosettes at an angle to prevent water collecting in the centre. Set in rich, gritty soil and place a collar of gravel around the neck of the plants to assist drainage. Water regularly, but give less in the winter.

PROPAGATION Remove offsets in summer and insert in boxes of a sand/peat mixture in a cold frame until rooted. Pot up individually in compost, over winter in the frame and plant out in spring.

VARIETIES L. c. heckneri (above), toothed leaves, deep pink striped flowers; L. c. howelli, narrow leaves, rose-pink flowers. Many good named hybrids include `George Henley', terracotta; `Sunset Strain', mixed colours, including orange and yellow.

POSSIBLE PROBLEMS Excessive moisture causes collar rot.